AutoCodes – Generic – P081B

P081B Code - Starter Disable Circuit High

Quick Answer

The Transmission Control Module (TCM) monitors the Starter Disable Circuit signal. Common causes include Faulty Starter Relay, Starter Relay harness is open or shorted, Starter Relay circuit poor electrical connection. Severity is High - diagnose this code as soon as possible. Driving is not recommended if the warning light is flashing, the engine runs poorly, or safety-related symptoms are present.

What it means: P081B indicates Starter Disable Circuit High.
Common causes: Common causes include Faulty Starter Relay, Starter Relay harness is open or shorted, Starter Relay circuit poor electrical connection.
Severity: High - diagnose this code as soon as possible.
Can I drive?: Driving is not recommended if the warning light is flashing, the engine runs poorly, or safety-related symptoms are present.

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Code Popularity 2,817

How popular is this code, among other codes? Low

Repair Importance Level

Urgent (Diagnose now) (3 / 3)

Repair Difficulty Level

Advanced (Pro) (3 / 3)

What is this?

Table of contents Created and updated by William Orellana on May 09, 2019

Description
Possible Causes
How To Fix
Cost to Diagnose
Comments
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Code P081B Description

The Transmission Control Module (TCM) monitors the Starter Disable Circuit signal. The TCM sets the OBDII code when the Starter Disable Circuit signal is not to factory specifications.

OBDII Code P081B - Starter Disable Circuit High - AutoCodes.com — P081B Code - Starter Disable Circuit High

What does this mean?

What are the Possible Causes of the DTC P081B?

Faulty Starter Relay
Starter Relay harness is open or shorted
Starter Relay circuit poor electrical connection

How to Fix the DTC P081B?

Review the 'Possible Causes' above and visually examine the corresponding wiring harness and connectors. Check for damaged components and inspect connector pins for signs of being broken, bent, pushed out, or corroded.

What is the Cost to Diagnose the Code?

Labor: 1.0

To diagnose the P081B code, it typically requires 1.0 hour of labor. Rates vary by location, vehicle, and shop. Many shops charge between $80–$150 per hour; dealerships and metro areas may be higher, independents may be lower.

Need more information about the P081B code?

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About the author: William Orellana is a Master Mechanic and Mechanical Engineer with over 30 years of experience diagnosing and repairing vehicles. Learn more about his background.